Kate Middleton vs. Kim Kardashian: Whose Wardrobe Wins?

When Kate Middleton accepted Prince Williams’ proposal in 2010, she was probably prepared for the media storm that followed—one does not marry royalty without anticipating some interviews. Her instant fashion icon status, though—solidified by the infamous sapphire blue dress she wore to announce the big news—might have been a bigger surprise.

While the Duchess always chooses ensembles that are polished and flattering, her picks are hardly those of a woman seeking attention. The bulk of her outfits are comprised of sold-out items she’s worn on multiple occasions, making it very hard for brands to capitalize on her influence. Also, according to one of Kate’s favorite designers, Roland Mouret, those who admire her style don’t necessarily want to copy it.

"You don’t see hundreds of women running around looking like her," he was cited as saying in the Telegraph. "To be honest, we’re more likely to get orders on a dress that Kim Kardashian’s worn."

Wait…what? Reality star Kim K. has more advertising clout than an actual royal? Before you call me, Mr. Mouret and the Telegraph crazy, think about it. The reality star is a frequent shopper—so frequent, in fact, that her family once held an intervention for her spending problem. (Season 3, episode 3 of Keeping Up—Google it, guys!) Also, she is rarely photographed in the same thing twice. So chances are that most of what she wears is recently-acquired and still available in stores. Not to mention, thanks to millions of Kardashian-obsessed fans, that her hit show has been on for seven seasons. I’m willing to bet that more than a few of her followers have ordered a Kardash-endorsed product.

Regardless of which famous lady’s look you prefer, there’s an way to add a bit of both to your wardrobe without sacrificing your own style. (Or spending hours online looking for a sold-out-everywhere-but-a-random-boutique-in-Bolivia shoe, or calling every Saks in the country!) Click through to shop Kim- and Kate-approved versions of five basics that would work in anyone’s wardrobe.